What is Earthdog?
Traditionally, Earthdogs went to ground after rats and other small rodents, as well as larger game such as fox or badger, and either faced out their prey or chased them from their lairs.
Earthdog tests, open to Dachshunds and small terriers, offer simulated conditions that test the earthdog’s keenness and ability to do its job. Trenches are dug and lined with wood, and the quarry, usually a caged rat, is placed within this artificial earth, where it can be seen and smelled but not touched or harmed in any way. The dog must find its quarry and ‘work’ it, by barking, digging or scratching. Age-old instincts come to the fore, and dogs typically take to the sport with zeal and tenacity.
-CKC Website
How do I start?
While earthdog is seemingly a hard to find sport, there are some clubs out there! Reach out to your local dachshund or terrier enthusiast to begin! Our club located in the Lower Mainland, British Columbia is the Western Dachshund Club. We host practices and will have our first trial June 2026! You can keep updated on their facebook page or reach out!
Why try earthdog?
Earthdog is a great sport to get your dogs natural instincts going! Embracing what these dogs were bred for and watching the instinct turn on is so much fun. Its a great non-competitive sport to work on your bond with your dog.